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PRIMER, Manila (2025)

03/07/2025

Six Filipino Seafarers Rescued After Nearly 3 Months Stranded in Iloilo Strait

ILOILO STRAIT – Six Filipino seafarers stranded aboard the foreign-flagged bulk carrier MV Herman Star for nearly three months were rescued on June 30, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) announced.

The vessel had been detained since April after it was deemed unseaworthy by the Philippine Coast Guard and was found to be operating without a valid trading certificate. The crew, which included six Filipinos and seven Indian nationals, had been enduring poor living conditions without electricity, clean water, or proper food.

According to the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), the Filipino seafarers raised complaints about the vessel’s condition and unpaid wages, prompting government intervention. After intense negotiations, the DMW and OWWA facilitated their release and reached a conciliation agreement covering partial salary payments.

Each Filipino seafarer received ₱100,000 in aid through DMW and OWWA funds. The Indian nationals remain onboard but are receiving assistance from the Bureau of Immigration as they wait for clearance to disembark.

DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac said administrative proceedings are underway against the vessel owner and its local manning agency, which is now suspended. Officials are investigating violations such as failure to ensure seaworthiness, unpaid wages, and possible contract substitution.

The MV Herman Star case has renewed focus on "ship abandonment," a growing concern in global maritime labor. Authorities stressed the importance of upholding seafarers’ rights and contract protections.

Meanwhile, on the same day as the rescue, another maritime incident occurred off Sibuyan Island, where the Landing Craft Tank San Juan Bautista sank. The Philippine Coast Guard confirmed that all six Filipino crew members were rescued safely. The vessel was carrying 2,500 liters of marine diesel from Negros Oriental to Navotas City when it went down.

The Coast Guard assessed minimal environmental risk, noting the depth of the waters and the type of fuel onboard. No visible contamination or foul odor was detected along the coastline.

Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the sinking, while maintaining heightened maritime patrols during the typhoon season.

03/07/2025

Pasig City Gives School Supplies, Health Vouchers to 100 Child Laborers

PASIG CITY – In celebration of its founding anniversary, the Pasig City government distributed educational supplies, food packs, and health vouchers to 100 identified child laborers on Tuesday at the Doña Juana Covered Court in Brgy. Rosario.

The initiative was part of the Department of Labor and Employment’s (DOLE) “Project Angel Tree,” which seeks to eliminate child labor and support vulnerable children.

Referred to as “Batang Malaya,” the beneficiaries received school supplies, groceries, and vouchers for medical and mental health check-ups. Their parents or guardians also received livelihood starter kits for making dishwashing liquid.

Pasig Vice Mayor Dodot Jaworski reminded parents to prioritize their children’s education, saying, “Hard work should not only be for earning money, but also for studying.”

The project was made possible through a partnership between the local government and private donors, including The Medical City, Universal Robina Corporation, and National Bookstore.

03/07/2025

Jo Koy Brings Laughter and Filipino Pride Back to SM MOA Arena

Filipino-American comedian Jo Koy returned to the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena on June 21, 2025, for his All-New Jo Koy: Just Being Koy Tour, marking his third performance at the iconic venue since 2020. More than just a comedy show, the event became a celebration of global Filipino talent, featuring standout pre-show performances from hip-hop group The Philippine Allstars and fellow Fil-Am comedian Joey Guila. A special surprise appearance by singer-songwriter Arnel Pineda added to the night’s cultural pride. SM MOA Arena once again proved to be a home for artists who proudly bring Filipino excellence to the world stage. The venue, in partnership with Live Nation Philippines, continues to serve as a cultural hub for unforgettable and meaningful performances that bridge continents and generations.

03/07/2025

Date of Suspension: Thursday, July 3, 2025

Cause: Heavy rains due to a Low Pressure Area (LPA) and the southwest monsoon (habagat)

PAGASA Advisory: Issued 5 a.m., warning of potential localized flooding and landslides in affected areas

Areas with Class Suspensions:
CAGAYAN
Aparri – All levels (public and private)

Camalaniugan – All levels (public and private)

Gonzaga – Pre-school to senior high school (public and private)

Sto. Niño – All levels (public and private)

Santa Teresita – Pre-school to senior high school (public and private)

METRO MANILA
Muntinlupa – Kindergarten and afternoon classes in all levels (public and private)

Pasig – Online and in-person classes from pre-school to senior high school (public and private)

Valenzuela –

Online and in-person classes from kindergarten to senior high school (public and private)

In-person college classes (public and private)

CAVITE
Entire province – All levels (public and private)

Reminder:
Stay alert for further weather and class suspension updates from LGUs and PAGASA.

03/07/2025

Parañaque City Launches Drainage and Clearing Ops to Prevent Flooding

The local government of Parañaque City has begun a citywide drainage inspection and clearing operation to prevent flooding during the rainy season and maintain urban cleanliness. Led by Mayor Edwin Olivarez, City Administrator Atty. Ding Soriano, and City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) head Bernie Amurao, the operation kicked off on July 1 with the clearing of clogged drains along Quirino Avenue in Baclaran. On July 2, the team extended operations to Dr. A. Santos Avenue (Sucat Road), joined by the Traffic Parking and Management Office (TPMO) under Rey Murillo and City Engineer Meriam Parungao. Mayor Olivarez said the clearing efforts will continue across major roads and barangays in the coming days to ensure public safety and flood mitigation throughout the city.

02/07/2025

Makabayan Bloc Files Bill to Ban Political Dynasties

The Makabayan bloc in the House of Representatives has filed House Bill 209, or the proposed Anti-Political Dynasty Act, aiming to prohibit relatives from holding or running for elective national or local positions simultaneously or in succession. The bill was authored by ACT Teachers Rep. Antonio Tinio and Kabataan Rep. Renee Co.

According to its explanatory note, the measure seeks to give “real teeth” to the 1987 Constitution’s mandate to prohibit political dynasties and promote social justice by limiting the concentration of political power within families. The bill defines a political dynasty as any family or clan that consolidates or perpetuates political power by holding office either at the same time or one after another.

Specifically, the bill bars individuals from running for or holding public office at the same time as another relative within the fourth degree of consanguinity or affinity, whether legitimate or not. Candidates would be required to submit a sworn statement to the Commission on Elections (Comelec) confirming that they are not covered by the ban.

Any voter, candidate, or political party may file a disqualification petition with Comelec. If unresolved by canvassing, votes for the candidate will still be counted, but their proclamation may be suspended. If found disqualified after proclamation, they automatically forfeit the office.

If enacted, the ban would take effect starting the next national elections and all future ones.

02/07/2025

"Alyas Totoy Comes Forward, Names Atong Ang and Gretchen Barretto as Alleged Masterminds Behind Missing 'Sabungeros'"

MONDAY, July 1, 2025 – MANILA — A major development has emerged in the unresolved case of the missing sabungeros (cockfighting enthusiasts) as a man identified only as “Alyas Totoy” stepped forward, naming businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang and former actress Gretchen Barretto as the alleged masterminds behind the disappearances.

In an exclusive interview aired Monday, Totoy claimed to have once been involved in online cockfighting operations and revealed inside knowledge of what he says was a deliberate effort to silence certain individuals. According to him, several sabungeros were made to disappear after discovering anomalies in the betting and profit systems.

“Hindi na ako matahimik. Alam ko ang totoo. May mga sabungerong hindi na pinakita kasi baka magbunyag ng katiwalian sa loob. At ang mga nag-uutos—walang iba kundi sina Atong at Gretchen,” Totoy said, his face hidden for security reasons.

The accusations were immediately denied by the camp of Ang and Barretto. Ang’s lawyer issued a short statement saying the claims were “walang basehan ang mga paratang at pawang paninira lamang ito sa reputasyon ng aking kliyente.” Barretto has not yet spoken publicly but is expected to release an official statement soon.

More than 30 sabungeros have been reported missing since 2021, when online sabong was at its peak in the country. Many of them were last seen in cockfighting arenas or shortly after participating in matches with large bets.

Lawmakers believe Totoy’s testimony could be a key piece of the puzzle in the ongoing investigation by the Senate and the Department of Justice (DOJ).

“Kung totoo ang mga alegasyon, isang napakalaking sindikato ang posibleng nasa likod nito. Dapat agad itong masusing imbestigahan,” said Senator Raffy Tulfo, who has long called for justice for the missing individuals.

According to reports, the DOJ has already issued a subpoena for Alyas Totoy and is preparing to place him under the Witness Protection Program to ensure his safety.

Families of the missing sabungeros say they are hopeful that Totoy’s revelations may finally lead to justice, after years of silence and uncertainty.

02/07/2025

Taiwanese Tourists Now Allowed Visa-Free Entry to PH for 14 Days

Starting July 1, Taiwanese nationals can now enter the Philippines visa-free for up to 14 days, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) confirmed on Monday.

The move follows Presidential Directive PBBM-2025-1539, issued last April, and will remain in effect until June 30, 2026. The policy aims to boost tourism and reinforce diplomatic reciprocity between the Philippines and Taiwan.

“This policy not only supports the Philippine tourism industry’s recovery but also affirms our commitment to reciprocate Taiwan’s generosity toward Filipino travelers,” said Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado.

Taiwan has long granted visa-free access to Filipino tourists, and the BI said the new measure mirrors that privilege while enhancing people-to-people exchanges and regional connectivity.

In 2023, the Philippines recorded over 235,000 Taiwanese tourist arrivals. With this new directive, officials expect the number to grow even further, benefiting local destinations and businesses.

The BI said it has issued instructions to all immigration personnel at international ports to ensure smooth processing of Taiwanese visitors, in line with existing protocols.

The 14-day stay is non-extendible and non-convertible, and immigration officers have been reminded to maintain professionalism and courtesy while strictly enforcing the rules.

Authorities hope the move will encourage more Taiwanese to explore the Philippines, in support of the government's tourism-driven economic strategy.

02/07/2025

China Sanctions Former Senator Tolentino Over South China Sea Stance

China has imposed sanctions on former Philippine senator Francis Tolentino, barring him from entering the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong, and Macao, over what it described as “egregious conduct” on China-related issues, particularly the South China Sea.

The announcement came Tuesday from the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which accused Tolentino of severely damaging China-Philippines relations and stirring hostility toward the Chinese community in the Philippines.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning emphasized that “there are consequences for hurting China's interests,” pointing to Tolentino’s active role in pushing the Philippine “Maritime Zones Act” — a law that China says attempts to legalize the 2016 arbitral ruling, which Beijing does not recognize.

Chinese scholars claim the sanctions are targeted and necessary. Ding Duo, a researcher at China’s National Institute for South China Sea Studies, described Tolentino as a “malicious driving force” behind legislation that allegedly violates international law and inflames tensions in the region.

Yang Xiao, a strategist tracking maritime issues, said Tolentino’s repeated efforts to promote the “China threat” narrative — including calls to investigate alleged Chinese interference in the 2025 Philippine elections — contributed to China’s decision.

In April, Tolentino had accused the Chinese Embassy in Manila of funding disinformation campaigns through fake social media accounts, a claim that China denied, reiterating its policy of non-interference in other nations’ affairs.

According to Chinese officials, the sanctions are a legal response to concrete actions, not just rhetoric. They also serve as a warning to other figures accused of undermining China’s sovereignty and territorial claims in the South China Sea.

The move further escalates tensions between the two countries as maritime disputes continue to test diplomatic and political ties.

02/07/2025

China Tells US: No Right to Meddle in South China Sea Dispute with Philippines

China has asserted that the United States has no right to interfere in maritime issues between China and the Philippines, calling the US an outsider to the South China Sea dispute.

In a press briefing on Tuesday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning responded to US criticism over China’s recent actions in the contested waters. The comments followed reports that two Philippine Coast Guard vessels entered waters near Xianbin Jiao (part of the Spratly Islands, or Nansha Qundao) without China’s permission on Monday.

Mao claimed the Philippines was the one that “first violated China’s rights,” adding that China’s response was “lawful” and aimed at protecting its territorial sovereignty.

She stressed that the United States, not being a party to the South China Sea issue, has “no right to intervene” in maritime matters between China and the Philippines. Mao also warned Washington against using the US-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty as a basis for involvement, saying it should not be used to challenge China’s sovereignty.

“The US should stop stirring up confrontation in the region and avoid actions that would harm regional stability or increase tensions,” she said.

The statement comes amid rising tensions in the South China Sea, where China, the Philippines, and other nations have overlapping territorial claims. The US has repeatedly backed the Philippines, citing freedom of navigation and regional security, especially under its 1951 mutual defense agreement with Manila.

China continues to reject third-party involvement in what it considers bilateral disputes. Meanwhile, the Philippines has been vocal in seeking international support in asserting its rights under international law, particularly the 2016 arbitral ruling favoring Manila’s claims — a decision China has refused to recognize.

01/07/2025

P34M Worth of Smuggled Onions, Mackerel from China Seized at Manila Port

Authorities intercepted around P34 million worth of smuggled onions and frozen mackerel from China that were misdeclared as processed food items, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) reported on Tuesday, July 1.

During a joint inspection by the BOC, Department of Health (DOH), and Department of Agriculture (DA) at the Port of Manila, officials found that the six 40-foot containers held red onions (worth P10.3M), white onions (P3.82M), and frozen mackerel (P20.8M). The shipments were falsely declared as mantou, egg noodles, and kimchi to bypass agricultural import regulations.

A Warrant of Seizure and Detention was issued on June 23 due to misdeclaration and lack of required permits, in violation of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act. BOC officials explained that smugglers typically disguise agricultural items as FDA-regulated processed food to evade stricter agricultural controls.

The consignees of the seized containers—Latinx Consumer Goods Trading and Lexxa Consumer Goods Trading—face possible charges under the Anti-Agricultural Smuggling Act. Smuggling goods worth over P10 million is considered economic sabotage.

The DOH warned that the confiscated onions tested positive for E.coli and salmonella, which pose serious health risks. DOH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa stressed that all imported food must pass FDA safety checks before distribution.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu-Laurel revealed that 59 more China-bound containers in Subic are under review, with 18 companies already blacklisted for similar violations. He said a nationwide reassessment of shipments from China may follow to stop further smuggling.

Authorities vow tighter monitoring of imports to protect public health, support local farmers, and uphold food safety standards.

01/07/2025

Philippine Airlines Launches Direct Manila-Da Nang Flights

Philippine Airlines (PAL) has officially opened a new travel gateway to Vietnam with the launch of its Manila to Da Nang route. The inaugural flight, PR 585, departed from Ninoy Aquino International Airport at 11:10 AM on Tuesday, July 1, marking the beginning of tri-weekly direct services to the Central Vietnam destination.

The new route expands PAL’s Vietnam network to three cities — Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hanoi — making Vietnam the most served ASEAN country in PAL’s roster, with 24 weekly flights. It also includes Cebu-Ho Chi Minh flights operated three times a week.

“This route strengthens the close ties between Filipinos and Vietnamese,” said PAL President Richard Nuttall. “We’re excited to bring more travelers to Da Nang, a key tourism hub in the region.”

Vietnamese Ambassador Lai Thai Binh welcomed the milestone, calling it “a bridge between our people, cultures, and shared dreams,” especially meaningful as both nations approach the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2026.

Tourism Undersecretary Shahlimar Hofer Tamano emphasized the growing appeal of Vietnam to Filipino travelers and vice versa, saying the direct route supports the rising demand for easier, more enriching travel experiences between the two countries.

Flights from Manila to Da Nang depart every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday at 11:10 AM, arriving at 12:45 PM (local time). Return flights leave Da Nang at 1:35 PM and land in Manila at 5:10 PM.

This new link provides Filipino travelers with faster access to Vietnam’s scenic beaches, cultural landmarks, and vibrant food scene — just in time for midyear travel plans.

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